Costa Rica vs. Panama: which should you go?

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Central America's narrow land bridge between North and South America has created one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, with Costa Rica and Panama sitting right in the middle of it.

Their location makes both countries rich in wildlife, but the way they've grown as travel destinations is pretty different. If you’re deciding where to go, here’s our guide to Costa Rica vs. Panama.
 

 Costa Rica vs Panama at a glance

Costa Rica and Panama sit side by side in Central America, but they give you very different experiences:

 

Costa Rica

Panama

Known forBiodiversity, eco-lodges, volcanoes

Panama Canal, quiet islands, colonial towns

BudgetHigher overall, especially in popular areasHigher overall, especially in popular areas
Typically quite a bit cheaper across most categories
Best time to goDecember–April (dry season)January–March (driest stretch)
Overall vibeEasy-going, tourism-focused “pura vida” cultureLess crowded, a mix of city energy and rural calm

Still undecided? Let our local experts plan your perfect trip.
 

rainforrest costa rica

Costa Rica waterfall Waterfall © Shutterstock

Are Costa Rica and Panama near each other?

Yes, Costa Rica and Panama are neighbors in Central America, sharing a border that stretches about 205 miles (330 kilometers). They’re both part of the narrow strip of land that connects North and South America, with Costa Rica to the northwest and Panama just below it.

Each country has coastlines on both the Pacific and Caribbean sides, so they share some similar geography—rainforests, beaches, and a mix of lowlands and mountains.

Travel times between the two

Flying between San José and Panama City takes about an hour, which is the easiest option. If you’re going by land, the drive from one capital to the other takes around 7–8 hours, depending on how long you spend at the border crossing in Paso Canoas. 

On the Caribbean side, it’s pretty easy to go between Puerto Viejo and Bocas del Toro by shuttle and boat—it usually takes around 2–3 hours door-to-door. This is a great way for getting around Panama in general.

What are the similarities between Costa Rica and Panama?

Both countries have a tropical climate and a huge range of wildlife—sloths, monkeys, colorful birds—you’ll see a lot of crossover there. The landscapes are similar in parts too, with humid jungles, cloud forests, and long stretches of coastline. They’re also both great for active trips: surfing, hiking, ziplining, and wildlife-watching are popular on both sides of the border.

People often compare the two because they’re easy to travel in, relatively safe, and share a lot of the same draws. Panama uses the US dollar, and most places in Costa Rica accept it too. Getting around is fairly straightforward in both, and you don’t need a complicated itinerary to see a mix of nature and culture. If you’ve got the time, it’s totally doable to combine them into one trip without much hassle.

What are the differences between Costa Rica and Panama?

When it comes to Costa Rica vs. Panama, Costa Rica is all about its “pura vida” vibe—relaxed, nature-focused, and geared toward travelers.

There’s a lot of eco-lodging, tour companies, and travel infrastructure already in place, so it's easy to make a Costa Rica itinerary. Panama has more variety when it comes to culture, with strong Afro-Caribbean communities, Spanish colonial towns, and areas where indigenous groups still live traditionally.

Costa Rica’s highlights are more spread out—you can easily road trip around the country and find national parks, beaches, and waterfalls along the way. Panama’s more centered around Panama City, especially if you’re curious about the Canal or want a trip with both city and nature. 

The rural parts of Panama tend to be less built up for tourism, which can be a plus if you’re looking for fewer crowds. Generally, Panama can be easier on the budget, while Costa Rica is more established for families or first-time visitors who want things to be simple to plan.
 

Waterfall at cloud forest, La Amistad international park, Chiriqui province, Panama © Alfredo Maiquez/Shutterstock

Waterfall at cloud forest, La Amistad international park, Chiriqui province, Panama © Alfredo Maiquez/Shutterstock

Best time to visit Costa Rica vs Panama

Both countries have distinct dry and rainy seasons, but the patterns vary depending on the region. 

The best time to visit Costa Rica

From December to April, most of Costa Rica stays dry. January and February are the busiest months, so expect higher prices and more crowds then. 

The Pacific side is usually at its driest during this period. The Caribbean coast, though, has a break in the rain around September and October—even when the rest of the country is getting wet. 

From May to November, you’ll get afternoon showers in many places, but it’s also when the landscapes are at their greenest and things are generally quieter. Conditions vary a lot depending on where you go, so it’s worth checking our guide to the best time to go to Costa Rica.

The best time to visit Panama

Panama’s dry season usually runs from mid-December to mid-April, with the most consistent sun between January and March, especially on the Pacific side. 

The Caribbean coast doesn’t have a clear dry season—rain is pretty common year-round—but it does ease up a bit in February-March and again around September-October. 

Panama doesn’t see as many tourists as Costa Rica, so even during the dry season, you’re less likely to deal with big crowds unless you’re traveling during local holidays. Highland areas like Boquete stay cooler and misty most of the time, no matter the season. See our guide to the best time to go to Panama.

Puerto Escondido bay, Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Puerto Escondido bay, Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Does Costa Rica or Panama have better beaches?

When it comes to Costa Rica vs Panama, Costa Rica’s beaches are generally easier to reach and come with more infrastructure—places to stay, eat, and get around. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for something that’s easy to navigate, especially with kids or if you don’t want to spend too much time getting from place to place. Here are a few highlights of the best beaches in Costa Rica:

  • Manuel Antonio beaches (Central Pacific coast): White sand, calm waves, and wildlife nearby—expect to see monkeys and sloths in the trees. It’s part of a national park, so there’s nature all around.
  • Tamarindo (Guanacaste): A wide, easy-to-reach beach known for beginner-friendly surf and a lively town scene. It’s popular, so expect crowds, surf schools, and plenty of places to eat.
  • Santa Teresa (Nicoya Peninsula): Long and sandy with consistent surf and a chill, small-town vibe. This one’s big with the yoga and digital nomad crowd, and sunsets are a daily event.
  • Playa Conchal (Guanacaste beaches): Made up of crushed shells instead of sand, this beach has calm, clear water for swimming and snorkeling. There are a few low-key places to stay nearby.
  • Puerto Viejo (Caribbean coast): A more laid-back beach scene with Afro-Caribbean influence, reggae bars, and surfing. It’s less developed than the Pacific coast and has a slower pace.

Panama’s beaches are less built-up and tend to feel more remote. They’re better if you want a Panama itinerary that is made up of quiet, low-key days by the ocean and don’t mind fewer amenities. Here are some of the best beaches in Panama:

  • San Blas Islands (Guna Yala region): Tiny, palm-lined islands with white sand and clear turquoise water. Run by the Guna people, accommodations are basic and life is slow-paced.
  • Red Frog Beach (Bocas del Toro): A rainforest-backed beach that’s only accessible by boat. It’s quiet during the week and named after the small red frogs that live nearby.
  • Starfish Beach (Isla Colón, Bocas del Toro): Calm, shallow water with starfish scattered in the sand. It’s easy to wade out for ages, and there are basic food shacks at the edge.
  • Playa Venao (Pacific coast): A long, crescent-shaped beach with consistent waves, popular with surfers and backpackers. There’s a small, growing town just behind it with a few cafes and hostels.
  • Isla Coiba (Pacific coast): Harder to reach, but part of a marine park known for snorkeling and wildlife. The beaches here feel wild and remote, with basic facilities and few crowds.
Kuna Yala Panama

Kuna Yala Panama © Shutterstock

Which country has more beautiful scenery?

Costa Rica and Panama both have some pretty striking landscapes, but they feel different. In Costa Rica, it’s easy to move between rainforests, volcanoes, beaches, and cloud forests without spending too much time on the road. Things are relatively close together, and there are well-maintained paths and clear signage that make it simple to get around. There are also a ton of national parks in Costa Rica. Panama has more variety overall—canals, mountains, islands, and jungle—but it usually takes longer to reach the more remote areas.

When it comes to Costa Rica vs. Panama, if you’re into seeing a range of ecosystems in just a few days, Costa Rica makes that doable. But if you’re the kind of traveler who doesn’t mind longer drives or boat rides to get somewhere more off the beaten path, Panama can be more rewarding in that way.

The iconic scenery of Costa Rica

Some of Costa Rica’s most memorable landscapes include Arenal Volcano, which rises sharply out of the rainforest and often sits under a veil of mist. 

In the highlands, the Monteverde Cloud Forest feels like another world with its fog-draped canopy and hanging bridges. Manuel Antonio is a classic coastal park where you can walk from thick jungle trails straight onto a beach.

Tortuguero, on the Caribbean side, is where you can travel by boat—small canals cut through the jungle, and you’ll pass herons, monkeys, and maybe even a crocodile.

Everything’s relatively close together, so it’s possible to fit in hot springs, rainforests, and coastlines in a short trip. 

The iconic scenery of Panama

Panama’s most recognizable sight is probably the Panama Canal. It cuts through dense green hills, and watching ships pass through is more interesting than it sounds—especially in person. 

Then there’s Volcán Barú, which is the country’s tallest mountain. On a clear morning, you can see both the Pacific and the Caribbean from the top. El Valle de Antón is another cool spot—a quiet town sitting inside an old volcanic crater, surrounded by low mountains, waterfalls, and jungle.

If you head out to the Caribbean coast, the San Blas Islands are hard to beat. They’re small, palm-covered, and scattered across bright blue water. A lot of Panama’s scenery takes a bit more effort to get to, but that’s part of the appeal—it’s less crowded, and feels a little more like you’re discovering it for yourself. Great if you’re into places that feel a bit tucked away.
 

Bridge in Rainforest - Costa Rica - Monteverde  © Shutterstock

Bridge in Rainforest - Costa Rica - Monteverde  © Shutterstock

Top activities in Costa Rica vs Panama

Costa Rica has more built-up options for outdoor activities—you’ll find ziplining, wildlife tours, and volcano hikes pretty easy to arrange, even last minute. 

Panama’s a bit more low-key in that sense, but it leans more into cultural and historic experiences. There’s still great nature; it just tends to be less crowded and a little less structured.

Best cultural activities for Costa Rica and Panama

Both countries have plenty of cultural experiences worth your time. In Costa Rica, you can tour coffee farms, learn about Indigenous history at small regional museums, or catch traditional dance performances during local festivals (see more about this in our Costa Rica travel tips). 

Panama adds a more urban angle with historic neighborhoods like Casco Viejo and museums explaining the Canal’s global role. You’ll also find community-based tourism in both countries, where local guides share insights into Indigenous cultures—like the Guna and Emberá in Panama or Bribri and Maleku communities in Costa Rica. 

Best adventure activities Costa Rica and Panama

When it comes to Costa Rica vs Panama, you’ll find plenty to do outdoors in both places. Costa Rica best places to visit make it easier with zipline tours through the Monteverde cloud forest and rafting on the Pacuare River. 

Panama leans a little more rugged—trekking in the Darién Gap or diving near Coiba National Park. Surfing’s big in both, with breaks that work year-round. Tamarindo in Costa Rica and Santa Catalina in Panama are the most well-known.

Women in the national pollera dress, Panama © Nori Jemil

Women in the national pollera dress, Panama © Nori Jemil 

Best nature activities for Costa Rica and Panama

Wildlife is a big part of the experience in both countries. Costa Rica has more nature lodges and guided walks, which makes it easier to see animals like sloths, monkeys, and toucans—especially around Manuel Antonio or Tortuguero. This is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica.

Panama has excellent birdwatching near Gamboa, particularly along Pipeline Road, and during whale season you can see humpbacks around the Pearl Islands. Hiking is possible in both, but Costa Rica has more marked trails and guides who can help you get more out of the experience.

Best family activities for Costa Rica and Panama

Costa Rica with kids is generally easier. There are mellow wildlife boat tours in Tortuguero, chocolate workshops on the Caribbean coast, and surf lessons geared toward beginners.

Panama also has some good family-friendly activities—like watching ships pass through the Canal at the Miraflores visitor center or checking out the BioMuseo, which was designed with kids in mind. Both countries have family-focused places to stay, but Costa Rica with kids can be a bit easier because it has more that are geared specifically toward international visitors traveling with children.
 

Toco toucan © Shutterstock

Toco toucan © Shutterstock

Is Costa Rica or Panama a better eco-friendly destination?

Costa Rica has been focused on conservation for decades, with close to 30% of its land protected in national parks and reserves. It’s also known for running on nearly 100% renewable electricity at times. That early commitment shows in how easy it is to travel sustainably here—eco-lodges are common, sustainability certifications are well-established, and many tours are built around environmental education. There are many national parks in Costa Rica.

Panama has also taken big steps, especially in recent years. It’s home to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Darién Gap National Park, one of the largest reserves in the region. But when it comes to ecotourism infrastructure, it’s not quite as consistent. There are fewer certified operators, and environmental practices can vary depending on where you go.

Costa Rican food vs. Panamanian food

Both countries have plenty of Central American staples—rice and beans, plantains, and fresh fruit are everywhere. Costa Rica leans toward simple comfort food, especially the traditional casado plate: rice, beans, plantains, a salad, and your choice of meat. 

Around the coasts, you’ll find good seafood, and the farm-to-table scene has grown in areas with more tourism. The country is also well-known for its high-quality coffee, and plantation tours are easy to find.

Panama’s food pulls in more outside influences, especially Afro-Caribbean and colonial flavors. Dishes like sancocho (a chicken and root vegetable stew), carimañolas (fried yuca stuffed with meat), and citrusy ceviche are common. You’ll find more variety in Panama City, where global cuisines sit alongside traditional dishes. In rural areas, food tends to reflect local culture and traditions more directly. 

When it comes to Costa Rica vs. Panama, street food is a big part of both food scenes, though Panama’s cities tend to have more variety.
 

whale-panama-shutterstock_715901149

Whale in Panama  © Shutterstock

Is Costa Rica or Panama cheaper?

Panama usually ends up being easier on the wallet than Costa Rica—around 15–20% cheaper in most areas, especially when it comes to places to stay, getting around, and eating out. That difference becomes even more noticeable in busy tourist areas. In Costa Rica, the popular towns can get pricey fast, while Panama’s better-known areas still tend to be relatively affordable.

Costa Rica costs

Prices in Costa Rica have gone up quite a bit over the years. If you’re traveling mid-range, expect to spend somewhere between $100 and $100–150 a day. Private rooms at the budget end usually start around $50–60, and mid-range hotels are often in the $100–200 range. 

Local restaurants, called sodas, are usually around $8–15 per meal, while restaurants that cater more to tourists charge more like $15–30. Transportation isn’t cheap either—shared shuttles between towns can cost $50–70 each time. Tours and excursions add up too, with common activities like ziplining or guided hikes usually priced between $50 and $50–120 per person.

Panama costs

In Panama, you can travel on a similar budget and stretch your money further. A daily mid-range budget typically runs around $80–120. For Panama accommodation, budget private rooms start at about $30–40, and mid-range places range from $70–150. You can find meals at local restaurants for $5–10, and fancier restaurants tend to be $12–25 per person. 

If you are wondering how to plan a trip to Panama for less money, public buses between major cities are comfortable and inexpensive, which makes getting around much cheaper than in Costa Rica, where shuttles are often the go-to. Activities also tend to cost less—usually 15–25% cheaper than similar things in Costa Rica—so if you're planning a lot of excursions, Panama can be more manageable.

Visa requirements

Whether you're planning a trip to Costa Rica or Panama, entry is pretty straightforward for most travelers from the US, Canada, EU countries, and Australia. Costa Rica gives you 90 days without a visa, as long as you can show proof of onward travel and have enough funds to cover your stay. There’s also an online form to fill out before you arrive—quick and free for most travelers.

Panama allows travelers from many of the same countries to stay for up to 180 days without a visa. You’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least three months after you leave. Some nationalities need to buy a tourist card on arrival, which costs between $30 and $50. Panama might also ask for proof that you have at least $500 available and a ticket showing you plan to leave the country.
 

Catarata del Toro waterfall in Bajos del Toto, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Catarata del Toro waterfall in Bajos del Toto, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Is Costa Rica safer than Panama?

Both Costa Rica and Panama are generally safe and feel manageable for travelers, especially compared to other parts of Central America. Costa Rica has a slightly more relaxed vibe overall. But like anywhere popular with tourists, you still have to watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in busy areas.

Panama also feels safe in most places tourists tend to go—especially in Panama City, where the main neighborhoods are well-patrolled and pretty easy to navigate. The main difference is that safety can vary more across the country. 

Remote areas near the Colombian border, like the Darién Gap, are best avoided. Not just because of safety concerns, but also because there’s not much infrastructure for travelers there.

When it comes to healthcare, both countries have decent systems. You’ll find private clinics and hospitals in bigger towns and cities. Panama City’s facilities are especially modern, and Costa Rica’s public and private healthcare are both easy to access if you’re near a city.

As for health precautions, you’ll want to be mindful of mosquitoes—dengue is present in the lowlands in both countries. Bring repellent and cover up in the evenings. For more on that, see our Costa Rica travel health tips. 

In general, travelers—including solo visitors and families—tend to feel comfortable in both countries. If you’re new to the region, Costa Rica might be a little easier to navigate, just because the tourism infrastructure is more built up and predictable.
 

Marino Ballena National Park, Punta Uvita, Dominical, Puntarenas, Costa Rica  © Stefan Neumann/Shutterstock

Marino Ballena National Park, Punta Uvita, Dominical, Puntarenas, Costa Rica  © Stefan Neumann/Shutterstock

Costa Rica is best for...

  • If it’s your first time in Central America, Costa Rica is probably the easiest place to start. English is widely spoken, tourism is well established, and it’s pretty simple to get around.
  • It’s great for Costa Rica wildlife—you don’t have to go deep into the jungle to see sloths, monkeys, toucans, or frogs. Most national parks have clear trails and guides who actually know what they’re talking about.
  • Families tend to do well here too. There’s a wide range of places to stay, plenty of kid-friendly tours, and things generally run on time.
  • If you care about sustainability, there are a lot of places here that try to do things responsibly—especially in the rainforest regions.
  • Adventure is easy to access. You can go from ziplining in the morning to surfing or soaking in hot springs by afternoon.
  • And because the country is relatively small, you don’t have to spend hours on the road to see different ecosystems. It’s easy to fit a lot into a short trip (see our favorite Costa Rica hikes as an example).
     
Panama Canal @ Shutterstock

Panama Canal @ Shutterstock

Panama is best for…

  • If you're watching your budget, Panama gives you a similar experience to Costa Rica, just at lower prices. Food, lodging, and transport tend to cost a bit less.
  • It’s also a great place if you’re into history or engineering—the Panama Canal alone is worth a visit, and the old colonial neighborhoods in Panama City are worth a walk-through. These are some of the best things to do in Panama.
  • If you like doing your own thing, Panama rewards people who are willing to explore. It’s less crowded than Costa Rica in most areas.
  • Cultural experiences here can be more hands-on too, especially if you visit communities like the Guna in Guna Yala, who live by the coast and still follow traditional ways of life.
  • The beaches are quieter overall. Places like the San Blas Islands feel remote and relaxed, especially compared to more built-up parts of Central America.
  • And Panama City is a bit of a surprise—you get the feel of a big urban center, but with quick access to nature trails and wildlife nearby.

Costa Rica vs Panama: our verdict

When it comes to Costa Rica vs. Panama, Costa Rica is the better choice if you want something easy and don’t mind paying a little more for convenience. It’s ideal if you’re short on time, traveling with kids, or just want to see animals and get outdoors without overthinking the logistics. A Costa Rica family vacation is easier to plan than a Panama one.

Panama makes more sense if you’re traveling independently or on a tighter budget. It’s got a different rhythm—less touristy in many areas, with more variety when it comes to cultural experiences and places that aren’t on most people’s itineraries.

Let our local experts build your perfect itinerary.

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 07.07.2025

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.